Go Back
Crispy air fryer salmon recipe. Flaky, delicious salmon cooked in an air fryer.
Lady Maria

Air Fryer Crispy Salmon

Achieve perfectly flaky and flavorful salmon with delightfully crispy skin using the magic of the air fryer. This foolproof recipe guides you through each step for a healthy and delicious meal ready in minutes. Customize the seasonings to your liking for a truly personalized culinary experience.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 17 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 2 Salmon Fillets 6-8 ounces each, skin-on or skinless
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice, freshly squeezed
  • 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon Paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon Dried Thyme
  • Salt to taste
  • Black Pepper to taste
  • Pinch of Red Pepper Flakes optional

Equipment

  • air fryer
  • small bowl
  • Shallow Dish or Plate
  • paper towels
  • Fork
  • Meat thermometer (optional)

Method
 

  1. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper (and red pepper flakes, if using).
  3. Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish or on a plate. Pour the seasoning mixture over the salmon, ensuring each fillet is evenly coated. Rub the seasoning in a bit.
  4. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  5. Place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket, skin-side down (if using skin-on fillets). Ensure fillets are not overcrowded; cook in batches if necessary.
  6. Air fry for 8-12 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. Check for doneness by flaking with a fork or using a meat thermometer.
  7. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
  8. Carefully remove the salmon from the air fryer and let it rest for a minute or two before serving.

Notes

For extra crispy skin, ensure the salmon is thoroughly dried before seasoning. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to allow for proper air circulation. Experiment with different seasonings and herbs to customize the flavor to your preference. Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes for best results.